Chinese education strives to adapt to the trend of the technological age

A series of Chinese universities are reforming their engineering and technology majors, aiming at high-tech fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Big Data to meet the demand for talent training.

China aims to strengthen its science and technology force in its national strategy. (Source: THX)

As of July 31, a total of 19 universities had suspended or completely eliminated 99 old majors. Among them, Sichuan University is considering eliminating 31 majors, including animation, acting, and applied physics, in order to open a new major in biomass science and engineering.

The new major is expected to replace the chemical engineering training program, support traditional industries such as leather tanning and papermaking, and adapt to the future needs of the emerging biomass sector, Sichuan University said.

The move comes in response to the Ministry of Education’s request to “adjust the structure of university majors and talent training programs to serve China’s modernization.” At the same time, the Chinese Ministry of Education expressed support for universities’ efforts to train talent in many key areas, including integrated circuit manufacturing, AI, quantum technology, life sciences, and energy.

According to a study from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (Wuhan) in July 2024, engineering majors witnessed a huge transformation in training courses. Accordingly, from 2013-2022, the number of engineering majors at universities across China increased by 7,566, along with the emergence of 96 new research fields such as robotics, AI, Big Data, etc.

The study also found that the eliminated majors were often in traditional industrial fields, while new majors such as blockchain, integrated circuit design, and cybersecurity reflect advances in new technologies, government strategies, and regional economic development goals. The Chinese government and ministries have repeatedly called for the development and cultivation of talent in the technology sector.

On August 2, Chinese Vice Minister of Education Wu Yan stressed that vocational education in the country of one billion people needs to be “more in line with the development of industry.” In an article in the Chinese Communist Party’s Daily , Wu said that the ministry encourages universities to organize classes where talent is most needed.

In recent years, President Xi Jinping has advocated promoting an innovation-based economy, especially amid fierce competition with the United States, while seeking self-sufficiency in the semiconductor sector under Western sanctions.

In a June 2024 speech, Xi Jinping stressed that Beijing needed to “take the high ground” and called for strengthening the science and technology force in the national strategy, to support broad-based research rather than encourage free exploration of new fields.

In addition, according to the recently announced 3-year action plan, China is implementing a training program for digital engineers, technicians and human resources serving areas such as Big Data, AI, smart manufacturing, integrated circuits, data security and other fields.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/giao-duc-trung-quoc-no-luc-thich-ung-xu-the-tho-i-dai-cong-nghe-283627.html